MTHFR C677T polymorphism and cerebrovascular lesions in elderly patients with CSVD: A correlation analysis

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Genetics
• Gerontology

Background:

• Cerebral small vessel disease (CSVD) is a common condition in older adults, often leading to cognitive impairment and depression.
• Elevated plasma homocysteine (Hcy) levels are implicated as a risk factor for CSVD.
• The 5,10-methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR) gene plays a crucial role in homocysteine metabolism.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the association between the MTHFR C677T polymorphism and CSVD in elderly individuals.
• To determine the relationship between MTHFR genotypes, plasma homocysteine levels, and cerebrovascular lesions.

Main Methods:

• Assessed plasma homocysteine levels and performed MTHFR genotyping in elderly patients.
• Utilized MRI and MRA to evaluate cerebrovascular lesions, including white matter hyperintensities (WMH).
• Employed multivariate logistic regression analysis to identify independent risk factors for WMH.

Main Results:

• Plasma Hcy levels were significantly higher in individuals with the MTHFR TT genotype compared to CC and CT genotypes.
• The severity of white matter lesions correlated with age, female sex, coronary heart disease, lacunar infarction, and MTHFR polymorphism.
• The MTHFR TT genotype and lacunar infarction were identified as independent risk factors for WMH.

Conclusions:

• A significant correlation exists between plasma Hcy levels and MTHFR gene polymorphism, with the TT genotype being an independent risk factor for WMH in CSVD patients.
• Early detection of MTHFR gene polymorphisms and proactive management of risk factors are recommended to mitigate cognitive impairment in elderly CSVD patients.